England’s Rugby World Cup landed safely in Japan but were immediately disrupted by Typhoon Faxai, which brought Tokyo to a standstill.
The squad’s departure from Tokyo Narita Airport was delayed by about five hours due to congestion on roads meaning their transport could not leave the airport, leaving them temporarily stranded. No trains were running to their hotel, 66km away.
They were also delayed getting off the plane because of a shortage of buses.
The squad landed before 2pm local time, with the typhoon – which has been measured the 15th worst storm to ever hit the city – clearing some hours earlier.
Australia’s arrival in Japan was delayed by the typhoon, which saw their flight cancelled.
“We are excited to arrive in Japan, it is a great honour and privilege to represent England and we are looking forward to the tournament,” said head coach Eddie Jones upon arrival in Tokyo.
“This is a unique World Cup. It’s the first time in a tier-two nation so our ability to adapt quickly will be imperative.
“Every one of the 20 teams goes into the World Cup with the target of being at their best. We think we have prepared well so we have put ourselves in a good position.”
England are now due to spend one night in Tokyo, before departing for a pre-tournament training camp in Miyazaki.
Jones’s squad have enjoyed a strong World Cup training camp so far after claiming victories over Ireland, Italy and Wales — although they did also suffer defeat by the latter in Cardiff.
England will begin their World Cup campaign on September 22, when they face Tonga in Sapporo.
After that match they face a quick, four-day turnaround to take on the United States before finishing their Pool C matches with games against Argentina and France.
